'It was a matter of time' - American aid workers attacked with grenades in Gaza

On Saturday morning terrorists threw fragmentation grenades at American workers at the humanitarian aid distribution center near the Morag Corridor in the southern Gaza Strip. Two Americans were injured by shrapnel and were evacuated to a hospital.

This is the first time since the opening of the distribution centers, about five weeks ago, that terrorists have launched an attack against American aid workers.

In the past week, according to statements given to Kan News by the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF), there were specific warnings about Hamas’ intention to carry out attacks in the distribution areas.

The foundation described this morning’s incident as “an anticipated event” and added, “For us, it was a matter of time.”

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu released a statement this evening, in which he wished a swift recovery to the injured workers. “The entire world must stand up and condemn this serious incident, which once again exposes the cruelty of Hamas. The UN must stop opposing the foundation’s relief efforts and work jointly so it can continue to operate safely for the residents of the Strip,” he said.

Israeli security officials describe the American distribution centers as a success because they allow direct distribution of food to the Gazan population without relying on truck convoys, most of which are looted by Hamas and local crime families.

Hamas opposes the American distribution centers because they prevent it from taking control over the aid distribution. This is also the reason why, as part of its reservations about the proposed deal for the release of hostages and a ceasefire, the organization demands the closure of the distribution centers and a return to the previous method of bringing aid in via truck convoys.